Joel Embiid hasn’t played a single NBA game, but he’s already become one of the league’s darlings during the two years he’s been a 76er because of his hilarious social media persona. During the Philadelphia 76ers media day on Monday, the personality that makes the über-talented big man an internet star shined through during in-person interviews.
For instance, Embiid knows damn well that he’s one of the best social-media follows in all of sports.
"Joel, you've been a bit of a social media star the last few years." Embiid nods confidently.
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) September 26, 2016
The former University of Kansas star definitely isn’t the only one who feels this way, either.
Embiid says he can't watch college basketball anymore. "Since I've been in the league (nba), I feel like they can't play." Mentions spacing.
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) September 26, 2016
After two years of watching from the sidelines and rehabbing injuries, some are convinced Embiid’s career might be short-lived. Let’s just say he’s not at all worried about that possibility.
"From what it looks like right now, I'm going to have a 20 year career." — Joel Embiid #sixers
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) September 26, 2016
The 7-foot-2 center will probably block a lot of shots this season.
"What I hate the most is when the other team scores" – Embiid
— Jessica Camerato (@JessicaCamerato) September 26, 2016
If the Eagles can do it, why can’t the Sixers?
"Esp. being in this city, they've been looking for a team to win. I'm glad the Eagles have been doing so. I think it's our turn." – Embiid
— Jessica Camerato (@JessicaCamerato) September 26, 2016
Sixers players and coaches have gushed about the unique skill set Embiid flashes during closed-doors workouts ever since he was drafted in 2014. But point guard?
Embiid: "If somebody teaches me the point guard position, I feel like I'd be able to (play it)."
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) September 26, 2016
When in doubt, always trust the process.
Embiid finishes his press conference with one more "Trust the process."
— John Schuhmann (@johnschuhmann) September 26, 2016
With Embiid finally set to play in his first NBA games this season, there’s no telling whether he’s going to tone his social media presence down to concentrate on the games, but there will be plenty of opportunities for sound bites following games this year, which might be better.
By all accounts, Embiid has looked great in workouts and was even embarrassing teammates back in February. With Ben Simmons and Dario Saric joining the team, the 76ers will have a very formidable front line with Nerlens Noel, Jahlil Okafor all primed for minutes. How will the rotation shake out? That remains to be seen. One thing for sure, though, is that Embiid is poised to become a star – in the press room at the very least.